Genetics

How is cancer risk determined? Who needs genetic testing? How much is genetic testing? What happens during a genetic counseling and testing appointment? What will I do differently to screen if I have a genetic mutation? My mom and two sisters had breast cancer- is a mammogram enough for me?

New evidence-based breast cancer guidelines for patients from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) state that women should undergo a breast cancer risk assessment starting at the age of 25 years. The NCCN guidelines, Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnosis, were published “to help people understand their personal risk for breast cancer when they should begin

Learn more about the Oswego County Cancer Services Program.  

A recent article published in JAMA Network Open highlights the positive impact of individual cancer risk assessment on a patient undergoing mammography screening. Screening mammography saves lives. In fact, in the last 25 years, 40% fewer women have died from breast cancer. However, differences still exist across racial and ethnic groups, with a higher percentage

Genetic counselors play a crucial role in people’s healthcare – from helping them navigate the genetic testing process, to identifying key information in their family health history, to supporting them through an important medical decision. Genetic counseling and cancer risk assessment can help people better understand their health, make informed healthcare decisions, and shape the